Triathlon Rules

Before you do your first triathlon, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules commonly enacted by these races. Unlike running races, triathlons will actively have race officials patrolling the course to make sure that every participant obeys the rules set forth. On the swim section of the race, they will be in boats or kayaks. On the bike and run sections they will frequently ride on bicycles or on the back of motorcycles driven by volunteers. Below are the rules for Ironman-branded races. The majority of triathlons will have identical or very similar rules, but be sure to read the race information document provided by your race to confirm the exact rules – they are usually quite thorough.